Question B

[Jonetta]

To add to the department’s woes, Lori Phillip’s attorney finds out that the Family Court judge had a previous connection with Gonzo and should have recused himself. The connection was Tommy being the assigned detective over his sister’s homicide case. Do you think if the judge had disclosed the relationship he would have been asked to recuse himself? Is it enough now to overturn the custody decision?

[Sharon]

He doesn't seem like a band judge, but he should have recursed himself. I believe and unbiased judge would rule the same way.

I'm not sure what you mean by "Is it enough?" I don't think that baby belongs with a parent that couldn't even give him a name.

[Robin]

I think the judge should have let everyone know about his relationship with Gonzo and see how people reacted to it. He may have been asked to recuse himself. It may be that someone would decide that he was able to continue as judge.

[Lauren]

Yes, he should have disclosed it. Judges and other officers of the court must be above reproach for justice to be fair and impartial.

[Anita]

The judge should have disclosed the relationship. The Judicial Council that would have decided if the judge should recuse himself. That is the process. I think that when the Judicial Council reviews the evidence in the custody case, they will rule the same as the judge did. Custody was rightfully awarded to Gonzo.